Arete, Phenomenalism, and Semantics in The Birth-Mark

Do you need this or any other assignment done for you from scratch?
We have qualified writers to help you.
We assure you a quality paper that is 100% free from plagiarism and AI.
You can choose either format of your choice ( Apa, Mla, Havard, Chicago, or any other)

NB: We do not resell your papers. Upon ordering, we do an original paper exclusively for you.

NB: All your data is kept safe from the public.

Click Here To Order Now!

Throughout history, humanity has grappled with perfectionism, striving to attain it in all facets of life, from the physical to the spiritual, but is such a task even possible? Aylmer and Georgianas story in The Birth-Mark demonstrates that while perfectionism may be an admirable goal, it is not always achievable. In this short story, Nathaniel Hawthorne explores the concept of arete, or excellence of any kind, through the mad scientist Aylmers attempt to attain perfection. He believes that this mark symbolizes imperfection and is determined to erase it. Hawthorne utilizes ornate syntax and philosophical allusions to portray Aylmers obsession and symbolic nature. Aylmer states, Ah, upon another face & but never on yours! No, & you came so nearly perfect from the hand of Nature, that this& defect & shocks me, as being the visible mark of earthly imperfection (Hawthorne 367). Through these lines, Hawthorne conveys that perfection is unattainable and the futility of Aylmers pursuit. He cannot accept the reality of imperfection and attempts to erase it, which is fruitless. This story serves as a reminder of the importance of accepting ones imperfections and embracing them. Only through the flaws of human existence can one genuinely appreciate life.

Through Hawthornes ornate syntax and philosophical allusions, the story focuses on the idea of arete in pursuing perfectionism. Aylmer believes that his scientific prowess can help him attain immortality. He believes the mark is a barrier to his wifes potential and a limitation to his scientific pursuits, embodying the idea of phenomenalism. This behavior is noticed in Aylmers description of the mark being the visible mark of earthly imperfection (Hawthorne 367). Aylmer conveys that Georgianas nearly perfect face is marred by the birthmark, reminding her of her mortality and his failure to reach true perfection. The language and syntax used in Hawthornes work act as a way to shape the existentialist reality that impacts Aylmers and Georgianas reality through the illusion of perfection, leading to fatalism. For example, it is written: His love for his young wife might prove the stronger& but it could only be by intertwining itself with his love of science (Hawthorne 366). Hawthorne uses language to indicate that Aylmers pursuit of perfection is ultimately fatalistic. Thus, the quest for perfection is ultimately pointless, and it is critical to accept ones flaws, being an interpretation that emphasizes the significance of grasping the limits of human knowledge and embracing imperfection.

Do you need this or any other assignment done for you from scratch?
We have qualified writers to help you.
We assure you a quality paper that is 100% free from plagiarism and AI.
You can choose either format of your choice ( Apa, Mla, Havard, Chicago, or any other)

NB: We do not resell your papers. Upon ordering, we do an original paper exclusively for you.

NB: All your data is kept safe from the public.

Click Here To Order Now!